Heterogeneous Networks for Smart Metering – Power Line and Radio Communication

In this paper, the radio wireless communication and the narrowband power line communication are analysed, simulated and experimentally verified for Smart Metering systems. This is followed by the proposal of a heterogeneous network, which consists of wireless radio transmission and narrowband power line communication (PLC). In rural and remote areas, due to the low population density and the poor familiarity with new technologies, the heterogeneous radio-PLC network offers a solution for smart grid and smart metering applications. Index Terms--Power distribution lines, Smart grids, radio communication, simulation, measurement.